Protect Yourself from Summer Heat and Wildfire Smoke

Summer Heat

Hotter, drier summers lead to rising temperatures and extreme heat that can be dangerous for the people of Saskatchewan. We can all work together to support the most vulnerable in our communities during these times.

Individuals at highest risk to be harmed by extreme hear include: those living with addictions, severe mental illness, multiple health conditions such as diabetes, lung and heart disease, those who work outside, seniors living alone and individuals who are socially isolated.

A heat alert response system, such as the ones below, alert the public of heat risks through an organized communication system. This allows people to take appropriate actions to mitigate heat-related health risks, specifically for those most vulnerable in our communities.

Take steps to prepare yourself for the next heat wave:

• Download the SaskAlert app, a Government of Saskatchewan's emergency public alerting program that provides critical information in real time
• Download the free WeatherCAN app to be notified of heat alerts
• Consider postponing non-essential appointments or registering for virtual care options
• Stay hydrated and monitor indoor temperatures
• Learn how to maintain cooler temperatures inside (for example: closing windows, moving to a basement level, having cold showers or baths)
• Temporarily relocate to a cooler location (mall, public library, community centre) or outside if you cannot cool your home
• Know the symptoms of heat illness, dehydration and when to seek medical care
• Remember that some medications may increase extreme heat impacts – Health Canada Fact Sheet

Wildfire Smoke

Saskatchewan communities are familiar with the devastating impacts of wildfires. When warmer weather arrives, it brings an increased threat of wildfires and the smoke resulting from them. Wildfire smoke carries harmful tiny particles which travels deep into the lung, causing irritation and exacerbating respiratory conditions. When there is a concentration of these dangerous particles, smaller than the width of a hair, they increase the risk of dysrhythmia, heart attack and stroke. People with high risk of cardiovascular disease should be caution during poor air quality and connect with their health-care provider for evaluation if symptoms arise.

Individuals at highest risk of wildfire smoke-related health impacts include: people with asthma and other respiratory diseases, people with cardiovascular disease, children under 18 years of age, pregnant people, older adults and outdoor workers. 

Reduce your risk from wildfire smoke by:

• Checking your community’s air quality data at Air Quality Health Index (AQHI)
• If the AQHI is high, stay indoors and reduce outside activities, especially high-intensity exercise  
• Update care plans for lung and heart symptom exacerbation 
• Improve indoor air quality with portable air cleaners such as HEPA filters
• If  you must be outside, a well-fitted and properly worn respirator such as the N95 mask can reduce smoke inhalation risks, but may not be appropriate for everyone. Properly-worn three-layer masks may offer a small benefit but bandanas, cloth masks, and clothing do not reduce smoke inhalation.

• If high temperatures and wildfire smoke occur together, keep doors and windows closed and air conditioning units on or relocated to community locations for cooler temperatures